Achieving tranquility in a chaotic market
Peace can be found in the midst of turmoil. The Greeks have one particular word they use for tranquility- euthymia which the stoic philosopher Seneca defines as ‘believing in yourself and trusting that you are on the right path’. The challenge Seneca says is to avoid doubt by following the countless footpaths of those wandering in every direction. Walking in that state produces tranquility.
2 Comments
Shannon,
Good Friday message, all need to learn from it Bro!
John A. Smaldone
Unfortunately, most people tend to go down the “other” path of despair, anxiety, fear, anger and depression and I learned over 34 years ago, that these negative feelings only deepen our suffering and essentially “take the wind out of ourselves”. Everything “starts” with us. Our state of mind and the actions that stem from that “mind”, which is inclusive of all that exists.
Positive thinking won’t necessarily help someone to achieve their goals and stem the tide of negativity that rolls up on our personal shore, however when one makes sincere efforts to “tame the dragon’ within ourselves and pushes back to transform these feelings into confidence, courage, strength, and compassion, one’s life will become happier.
All that happens to us each day is “passing’ scenery and nothing more. Each one of us is exactly where we are supposed to be and the environment we find ourselves in, is our creation. If one wants to change their situation, they have to change themselves first, then the environment will reflect that change….keep moving forward and never, never give up. And be grateful, that is so crucial and always help someone else.
I have been a practicing Buddhist for 34 years with the SGI-USA and each day before I set out on my “path”, I chant “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo” for an hour, face my life, focus on my goals with fierce determination and seek how I can help another person, especially the seniors who may be struggling.
This day may never come again. Don’t waste it in pessimism, that can lead to inertia and the inability to move forward. One’s happiness is waiting for each of us to “show up” and everyone deserves to feel peace, joy and have good circumstances. Don’t miss it….
http://www.sgi-usa.org/